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Managed Since: 06/19/2009
Views: 3,559
Money Earned: M$17.18
Page revenue is subject to change as we obtain data from our partners
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Introduction
- If error messages are appearing on your laptop screen, if your computer has crashed, or if it suffers from other major problems, reformatting the hard drive might solve the problem. Reformatting a hard drive is also necessary when you buy a new hard drive for a laptop. Just be aware that reformatting is a long process which erases all data on your computer. If you are having problems with your computer, you should see if other solutions can help before reformatting the hard drive. Don't reformat a laptop unless you think it's necessary.
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Step 1: Preparing
- Before reformatting a laptop, be sure to back up your data and to plan for enough time for the process.
- Reformatting a laptop is a long process that could take hours. Plan accordingly. While you will not be required to be by the laptop through the complete process, you will also not be able to use it during the reformatting.
- You must backup your data before starting the process. Reformatting will erase all data on your computer, including your files.
- For complete backup instructions, please refer to How to Back Up Your Computer Hard Drive
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Step 2: Using a Recovery CD
- Sometimes when you buy a computer you receive a recovery CD designed to easily fix problems that might occur in the future.
- If you bought your laptop and received a recovery CD, you can use it to reformat the laptop.
- If you did not receive one, you can usually request one from the laptop manufacturer.
- Insert the recovery CD.
- Choose the reformat option.
- Sometimes you will be given an option to reinstall the operating system without reformatting the hard drive. This option is less thorough than a reformatting but can sometimes be helpful.
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Step 3: Other Options
- If you don't have a recovery CD for the laptop, there are other ways to reformat a hard drive. The specific options will depend on the type of laptop and operating system.
- Consult the manufacturer of the laptop, or visit its Web site, for specific instructions.
- On many newer computers with Windows operating system, you can reformat the hard drive by using the operating system's CD.
- Many newer Mac computers also allow you to reformat the hard drive by using the disk for the operating system.
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Conclusion
- Before reformatting a laptop, consider if there are other options. If you think reformatting is necessary, be sure to plan enough time for it and to backup you data before starting the process. Use the appropriate method for the specific laptop and operating system to reformat the hard drive.
